Human Resources Professionals Association (HRPA) Practice Exam

Under the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA), when a company receives a complaint, it is required to provide a response within a specified time frame. This prompt response is crucial for maintaining trust with individuals whose personal information may be at stake. By addressing the complaint quickly, the organization demonstrates accountability and a commitment to protecting personal information, which is a core principle of PIPEDA.

This obligation for a timely response allows the company to clarify any misunderstandings, rectify issues if necessary, and potentially avoid escalation of the complaint. Timeliness not only complies with the legislation but also mitigates organizational risk by addressing concerns before they grow into larger issues.

The other actions listed do not capture the immediate obligation set forth by PIPEDA. For example, while notifying the authorities, conducting an internal audit, or correcting breaches is important, none of these actions are mandated as a first step upon receiving a complaint. Instead, the immediate focus must be on responding to the individual who has raised the concern, ensuring they feel heard and valued in the process.